Discussion and update on the City of San Luis’s Public Art Program. (Armando Esparza, Director of Economic Development). 

On January 14th, the San Luis City Council approved the El Corazón de San Luis Historic Preservation & Public Art Plan, including the Appendix that outlines the proposed Public Art Policy and sample Historic Preservation Ordinance. The adopted plan establishes public art and historic preservation as formal strategies for cultural storytelling, civic pride, downtown revitalization, and long-term economic development.
The Appendix provides the governance framework for the Public Art Program, including artist selection procedures, funding eligibility, maintenance standards, donation policies, and long-term collection management. It also outlines a structured review process, roles and responsibilities for staff and advisory bodies, and compliance standards to ensure artwork is appropriate, durable, and aligned with City policies.
Staff are now moving into the implementation phase, which will include:

• Issuing formal Calls to Artists (RFQ/RFP) with clear site requirements and safety standards
• Convening structured review panels with Economic Development, Parks and Recreation, Public Works, and other relevant departments
• Engaging the community through bilingual outreach, youth engagement, and public design input
• Following defined eligible cost categories including artist fees, fabrication, installation, and minimal contingencies

The preliminary working budget for initial public art installations is estimated at approximately $150,000 and leverages multiple funding sources, including T-Mobile Hometown Grants, GM on Main Street Grant funding, General Fund allocations, and private contributions. Proposed installations focus on Main Street, key intersections, crosswalk enhancements, utility box wraps, and additional mural opportunities. These projects are intended to enhance walkability, strengthen downtown identity, and support economic vitality.
In addition to implementation of the Public Art Program, staff believe historic preservation should be formally explored as a complementary economic development strategy. The adopted Appendix includes a sample Historic Preservation Ordinance framework, which provides the foundation for potential future action.